According to the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependency (NCADD), “Alcohol is the most commonly used addictive substance in the United States and 17.6 million people, or one in every 12 adults, suffer from alcohol abuse or dependence.”
Alcoholism is a chronic disease that affects millions of people across the country. The disease is a level of an alcohol use disorder, which describes a pattern of problems controlling drinking. National Alcohol Awareness Month aims to shed light on dangerous drinking patterns resulting in alcohol misuse and abuse and highlight treatment available for this disorder.
Understanding alcohol use disorder
A family history, as well as psychological and behavioral factors, can all contribute to developing alcoholism, a disease that alters the brain and neurochemistry. Having an addiction to alcohol means the person may not be able to control their actions. An addiction indicates a need. Alcoholism has to do with a person’s uncontrolled need for alcohol and the control it has on one’s life.
Alcohol use disorder includes alcoholism and alcohol addiction. These disorders can manifest in different ways, from person to person. Some people may drink heavily all day, and others may have periods of binge drinking. When the need for alcohol shows up as excessive drinking that disrupts a person’s life, it’s time to seek professional help to treat the problem.
Effects of alcohol use disorder
Long-term alcohol abuse can lead to severe medical and chronic health problems, such as dementia, stroke, hypertension, depression, anxiety, cancer, liver disease, suppressed immune function, and more. Excess alcohol builds up in the bloodstream when the body consumes more alcohol than it’s able to metabolize and this buildup then leads to impairments in the body.
Alcohol use disorders can also cause social issues, including isolation, problems with friends and family, and financial troubles. This disorder can manifest as a social problem that damages interpersonal relationships.
Common warning signs of alcoholism to look for:
Drinking to calm nerves or deal with problems
Feeling guilty about drinking
Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop drinking
Hiding drinking habits
Causing harm to oneself or someone else as a result of drinking
Needing to drink greater amounts of alcohol to achieve the desired effects
Feeling irritable or resentful when not drinking
Medical conditions caused by excessive drinking
Financial problems caused by excessive drinking
Social and family disturbances as a result of excessive drinking
Treating alcohol abuse with Crimson Care’s mental health services
Because heavy alcohol use typically manifests as a coping mechanism, it’s important to address its effects on mental health. We understand mental health is sensitive and can be scary for the patient. We have counseling services to help you through difficult times and offer support and even techniques for dealing with life stressors.
Our goal is to be the bridge for the patient's next step for their mental health. We will use our best judgment and our specialty referral system to ensure you receive exceptional care for your mental health needs.
We can refer our patients who are dealing with an alcohol use disorder. Some treatment programs may include the following:
Rehab
Support groups
Counseling
Learn about substance abuse help services available at Crimson Care in Tuscaloosa, AL.
Dr. Ramesh Peramsetty -- along with his entire Crimson Care team -- is committed to making medical services convenient and accessible. The clinic offers three Tuscaloosa locations: Crimson Care Skyland, Veterans Memorial, and First Care on McFarland. All locations offer extended weekday hours and one-stop treatment services, including medical care, x-rays, lab work, and prescription dispensing. Crimson Care also provides digital access through its online patient portal. Request prescription refills, complete any necessary patient forms online, review your medical records at any time, and even pay your bill.
Check us out today on our website, or give us a call today at Crimson Care Veterans: (205) 507-1100, Crimson Care Skyland: (205) 507-1119, or First Care: (205) 349-2323.